Considering an Isuzu bakkie or perhaps a mu-X as your first car? You can't go wrong with Isuzu, but make sure that your chosen D-MAX or pre-loved Isuzu KB model has the necessary safety features to keep you in one piece.
Isuzu D-Max
Single cabs
The Isuzu KB became the Isuzu D-Max in 2018 but the launch of the brand-new model is imminent – the launch is set to happen on the 7th of April 2022. While most new drivers won’t be able to afford a new 2022 D-Max bakkie, you’re better off looking at the outgoing line. But be warned: Not all models are suited to new drivers. These are: The entry-level D-MAX 250C, the 250C Fleetside, and the D-Max 250 Fleetside. None of these models have ABS (anti-lock brakes).
Why do new drivers need ABS?
The theory behind anti-lock brakes is simple. A skidding wheel has less traction than a non-skidding wheel. By keeping the wheels from skidding while you slow down, anti-lock brakes enable you to do two things: To stop faster and to steer while you stop. ABS has been saving lives ever since its invention, so we deem it very necessary for all drivers, not just new ones.
The safest new Isuzu D-MAX model at the cheapest price
The KB 250 Fleetside Safety at R380 500 (pictured above) has ABS, brake assist, hill-start assist, traction control and stability control. Isuzu has even thrown in descent control for good measure, and a rear diff lock is optional. From this model and up all single cabs will be safe enough for you.
If you’re buying a pre-loved KB model instead, make sure that you buy the KB 250 Fleetside Safety variant. They don’t look much different from the other entry-level models, but all the good stuff is on the inside.
Double cabs
Interested in a double cab, rather? Avoid the entry-level D-Max 250 Double Cab. Yet again, it has no ABS, and as a new driver, you need this feature. From the D-Max 250 Double Cab Hi-Ride (479 900) and upwards, you’ll have access to the safety goodies found in the aforementioned single cab Fleetside Safety model.
Extended cabs
If an extended cab model is what you’re after, rest assured that ABS, brake assist, hill-start assist, traction control, stability control and hill-descent control are standard on all extended-cab models. They’re priced from R434 500.
Isuzu mu-X
The new Isuzu mu-X is a fantastic seven-seater SUV, but is aimed at those with larger budgets.
The new mu-X (from 693 800) is way out of reach for new drivers and even used ones are not affordable to most, but it is specced to the hilt with safety and convenience features, and it won’t take too long for a new driver to get used to its substantial size. It’s a bit cumbersome to park if you live in a congested city – Cape Town’s streets are infamously narrow and parking is hard to come by. It’s more of a family car than a car for a new driver.
This Trailblazer is a 2016 LT model with low mileage – excellent value at R339 950.
However, if you want something large and you don’t have the money for a new or even a used Isuzu mu-X, we have some good news: The Chevrolet Trailblazer (essentially an older version of the same car), can be bought cheaply in the used-car market if you have between R250 000 and 400 000 to spend. Yes, there are cheaper Trailblazers, but their mileage is on the high side. You can take your Trailblazer to Isuzu for servicing and repairs, or to Williams Hunt or Steve’s Auto Clinics. Remember to set money aside for a comprehensive warranty and service plan as all the Chevys are out of warranty already. Also bear in mind that 4×4 models will be slightly heavier on fuel than their 2×4 counterparts.
This is a 2014 Chevrolet Captiva 2.4LT Auto with 61 300 km for R194 000 – but budget carefully for petrol.
Still too big? Why not opt for the Chevrolet Captiva? It’s also a seven-seater SUV, but smaller, and also very safe. Bear in mind that petrol models will be heavier on fuel than the diesel models, and if you buy diesel, it’s imperative that services and oil changes are done regularly.
Other smaller, safe alternatives for new drivers include Chevrolets like the Sonic hatch, Sonic Sedan, Cruze sedan, and Cruze hatch. I drove a Chevrolet Cruze 1.6 LS (with six airbags!) for a few years and found it to be a highly comfortable and convenient drive, and it’s not heavy on fuel. The only downside is that it depreciates like mad, but if you’re buying used, it means you’ll be able to find one at a very good price.
Keyword: Are Isuzus good first cars?